A deputy editor at a regional daily has been promoted to become group managing editor following the retirement of a veteran journalist who spent almost 45 years with the company.

Edward McCann, who held the deputy’s role at the Belfast Telegraph, has become group managing editor at Independent News and Media.

He takes on the position from Michael Denieffe, who is retiring this month after spending nearly 45 years with the Irish-based group, which publishes titles including the Bel Tel, Sunday Life, the Irish Independent and Sunday World.

During his time with the publisher, Michael previously held roles including group news editor, editor of the Dublin Evening Herald and pre-press manager, while he also represented the industry on the Press Council for two years.

In a story about his departure by the Irish Independent, Michael said: “My genuine regret in finally calling it a day after such a long and fruitful career is tempered by the fact that Independent Newspapers is now positioned to further consolidate its market position and that my successor, Ed McCann, has all the attributes, skills and experience to play a pivotal role in that enterprise.”

INM chief executive Robert Pitt said: “I would like to thank Michael for his great service to Independent News & Media over many years during which he has held important senior editorial and managerial roles.

“He is one of the most respected newspaper professionals in Ireland. I also wish to welcome Ed McCann to his new role in INM, which is at a time of transition and positive change for the company and its digital and print offerings.”

Edward joined INM in 2003, having previously worked for the Daily Mirror, Irish News and Andersonstown News.

In his time there, he has worked as associate editor with the Irish Independent, and operations editor and deputy editor at the Belfast Telegraph.